Category: Brandpoint Home & Garden

2026-09-11T12:01:02

(BPT) – Aging in place isn’t just about staying in a familiar building. Continuing to live in your home as you age is also about preserving a sense of self, dignity and control over daily routines.

The vast majority of older American adults (ages 50 and older) would like to live in their current home and community for as long as possible, according to AARP’s 2024 Home and Community Preferences national survey. However, traditional home layouts often create mobility and safety challenges over time, making aging in place more difficult and even dangerous.

Luckily, a few smart renovations can make it more attainable for older adults to maintain independence, comfort and peace of mind as they approach their golden years. Whether you’re thinking ahead for your own safety and comfort or preparing to take care of a relative as they age, consider the following changes that can help make aging in place easier.

1. Improve a home’s layout with mobility in mind

The standard home assumes homeowners can easily navigate stairs every day, multiple times a day. As you age, stairs can become painful and even dangerous to use, limiting a senior’s ability to get around their own home.

When updating a home, focus on creating a layout that allows you or your loved one to perform all essential daily functions entirely on the main floor. Depending on your home, that could include moving the primary bedroom, full bathroom and laundry room downstairs.

Consider converting a seldom-used dining room, den or home office into a permanent main-floor primary suite. You likely won’t miss the extra space, and you’ll be grateful for the renovation down the line.

2. Create an accessible bathroom

Creating an accessible bathroom on the main floor of your home should be your top priority when renovating. The bathroom is one of the riskiest places in your home. In fact, according to UCLA Health, an estimated 80% of falls in the home occur in the bathroom.

Take stock of your bathroom and note what features could improve safety and mobility. For example, getting on and off the toilet can be more difficult for older adults. Installing grab bars and comfort-height toilets can make going to the bathroom safer and more comfortable.

Make sure you also have sufficient lighting. Without proper lighting, overnight trips to the bathroom can quickly turn into an emergency room visit. A simple fix like a night light or two can brighten a room, improving visibility and reducing the risk of a fall.

3. Trade the tub for a shower

A bathtub can add a touch of luxury and create a spa-like atmosphere homeowners can enjoy on any given day. However, they take up a lot of a bathroom’s footprint and can pose a safety risk to older adults.

Getting in and out of a tub safely can be challenging for anyone, especially if you’re not as mobile as you used to be. Instead of risking a fall now or in the future, consider removing your bathtub and replacing it with a shower. Inside the shower, make sure to install handrails and a shower seat for added accessibility and safety.

4. Build an accessory dwelling unit

For some homes, it can be impossible or at least prohibitively expensive to incorporate aging-in-place renovations. If that’s the case for you, consider adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU).

ADUs are secondary living spaces added to a single-family home. Some are detached structures like a backyard or granny cottage, but you can also create an ADU by renovating a garage or basement into a separate living space, sometimes referred to as an in-law suite.

For Tina, a new homeowner in the Connecticut area, one of the most appealing features of her home was the basement that doubled as an in-law suite. With exterior access, the residence would provide her elderly parents with their own private living space on the lower level.

The problem: The basement ADU only had a half bath. Tina didn’t initially see this as a problem, as both of her parents could still navigate the steps to use one of the three full bathrooms upstairs. However, soon after moving in, Tina’s father suffered a heart attack that made it difficult for him to use the stairs.

To add a full shower to the in-law suite as soon as possible, Tina’s contractor recommended installing the Saniflo Sanishower. This above-floor plumbing system allows homeowners like Tina to add a shower to an existing room, basement, garage, guest suite or first-floor space without breaking through concrete or reworking an entire plumbing system.

Using the Sanishower, Tina’s contractor finished installing the pump in just four hours. This allowed Tina to complete the rest of the bathroom remodel quickly, just in time for her father to come home from the hospital.

Making aging-in-place renovations more accessible

The Sanishower isn’t the only solution that makes aging-in-place renovations easier.

Saniflo’s Saniaccess 3 is ideal for creating an accessible full bathroom in an existing room or converting a living space on the main floor. Need to add a toilet? The Sanicompact makes it easy to add a space-saving toilet system to smaller homes, condos, guest suites or caregiver accommodations. To add a sink to an aging-in-place suite, you can use the Sanivite.

These above-floor plumbing systems are ideal solutions for retrofitting older homes, first-floor living conversions and accessible bathroom installations. They can ultimately help homeowners create safer, more functional layouts without relocating.

Aging in place is possible

You don’t have to move out of your home to age in place. With a few smart renovations, older adults can maintain their independence while staying safe and comfortable where they are. To learn more about how above-floor plumbing makes aging-in-place renovations simple and attainable, visit Saniflo.com/EN.

2026-09-01T07:01:00

(BPT) – The shift into fall often feels like a reset. Cooler mornings, changing leaves, a slower pace. But in many parts of the country, it also signals something less visible, a secondary wildfire season.

While Southern California, Texas, Oklahoma, and parts of central and southern Appalachia face the highest wildfire risk in October, dry vegetation, fallen leaves and seasonal winds can create conditions for fast-moving fires whose impact can still reach homes miles, even states, away. Once in your area, wildfire smoke can enter your home and affect indoor air quality. Learn how HVAC filtration and air cleaners can help reduce dangerous smoke particles indoors.

How Wildfire Smoke Affects Indoor Air Quality

Wildfire smoke doesn’t stay near the flames. It can travel hundreds or even thousands of miles, settling into communities far removed from the fire itself.

What makes it particularly concerning is what it carries: microscopic particles known as PM2.5. These particles can move deep into the lungs and bloodstream, impacting breathing, heart health and overall well-being, especially for children, older adults and those with respiratory conditions.

And while heading indoors feels like the natural solution, smoke has a way of following.

It can slip through doors, windows, ductwork and even HVAC systems, quietly affecting the air you breathe every day.

Microscopic PM2.5 particles from wildfire smoke can travel unseen through the air — making their way indoors and affecting the air you breathe every day. Getty

How to Reduce Wildfire Smoke Inside Your Home

Here’s the reassuring part: protecting your indoor air quality doesn’t require drastic change, just the right approach. According to the EPA, HVAC filtration and air cleaners are among the most effective ways homeowners can help reduce indoor smoke particles during wildfire events. You can use the following strategies to reduce your indoor exposure:

• Close windows and doors to limit smoke from entering your home
• Avoid adding indoor pollutants, like burning candles or cooking at high heat
• Use portable air cleaners to help reduce airborne particles
• Adjust your HVAC system to recirculate indoor air instead of pulling in outside air
• Upgrade to a MERV 13 (or higher) air filter to help reduce smoke particles

These small adjustments can go a long way. For even greater impact, consider enhancing your system with advanced air purification solutions like the Lennox PureAir™ S system, which goes beyond filtration to remove smoke particles throughout your home. For guidance on choosing the right filtration or purification solution, consider working with a trusted home comfort expert like Lennox, or a local Lennox dealer.

Closing windows is a simple but effective first step, helping limit smoke from entering your home and giving your indoor air a chance to stay cleaner and more controlled. Getty

How HVAC Filtration Can Help During Wildfire Season

Wildfire seasons are becoming longer and more intense, making indoor air quality an ongoing concern, not just a seasonal one.

The good news? Homes with effective filtration and well-maintained systems consistently experience:

• Lower indoor particle levels
• Reduced smoke odors
• More consistent, comfortable living environments

Preparing your home and air systems ahead of time can help reduce health risks and keep your space comfortable when smoke arrives.

To learn more about IAQ products, find the right solution for your home and find a dealer to test your indoor air quality, visit Lennox.com.

Lennox indoor air quality solutions are built for reliable performance, long-lasting durability and energy-efficient operation, helping create cleaner air with comfort that stands the test of time. Courtesy of Lennox

2026-08-31T08:01:00

(BPT) – Sponsored by Chase Home Lending

Key takeaways:

• Buying a home for the first time can be intimidating, but there are resources that can help you feel more confident entering the housing market.
• Chase Home Lending offers first-time homebuyers a list of essential topics and tips that can help them start their journey to homeownership.

If you’ve never bought a home before, you may be overwhelmed by what you don’t know or concerned about what you think you do. Luckily, you don’t have to do it alone. To help, Chase Home Lending offers this essential primer on the key aspects of homeownership first-time homebuyers should know before entering the market.

A home lending professional can be your guide

Before you begin searching for your home, consult a home lending professional. They can help you get preapproved, navigate the homebuying market and review loan options.

Understanding the true cost of homeownership

If you’re making the move from renting to owning, you may be focused on the opportunity to build home equity but perhaps overlook the added costs like property taxes and home maintenance. Taking the time to understand the full scope of homeownership can help you decide if the time is right to buy.

Explore educational resources for homebuyers

If you’re a first-time buyer, the homebuying process can seem overwhelming. Luckily, there are many resources available to help boost your homebuying knowledge, such as how-to guides, webinars and podcasts.

Pro tip: Make sure to check the Chase Homebuyer Education Center, where you’ll find answers to mortgage questions, useful tips for buying and maintaining a home and an Affordability Calculator that can help you determine how much home you can afford.

Know what factors determine the mortgage approval process

During the mortgage approval process, lenders carefully review several factors that determine if they’ll approve your mortgage and at what rate. Two important factors that influence their decision are your credit score and debt-to-income ratio.

Your debt-to-income ratio — how much of your gross monthly income goes toward monthly debt payments like rent, student and auto loans and credit card payments — helps creditors assess your financial health and creditworthiness. Lenders typically want to see that your DTI is low, as it tells them you’ll be able to manage your monthly payments with minimal issues.

Your credit score helps determine the interest rate and other costs you pay on a mortgage loan. If your credit score is high, it tells lenders that you have paid your bills on time and that you are responsible with your money, making you a more attractive candidate for a home loan.

Understanding your options

Interest rates and fees can vary widely across lenders. Taking the time to compare options from banks, credit unions and online loan providers can help secure a better rate.

Don’t forget that loans come in all different shapes and sizes. Conventional loans aren’t your only option. There are programs like FHA* and VA** loans, plus other options like fixed-rate mortgages, adjustable-rate mortgages*** (ARMs) and low-down-payment loans that can provide greater flexibility and help with affordability.

Stick to a monthly budget

Determining and sticking to a monthly budget is crucial to successful homeownership. Beyond the mortgage payment, you’ll have to budget for repair and maintenance costs, property taxes, insurance premiums and more.

Consider “practicing” your monthly payment to prepare yourself for what it will be like to have a mortgage. Doing so can help you get a better sense of your budget so you can be financially and mentally prepared for the investment.

Pro tip: Be sure to research property taxes and insurance premiums in the area where you plan to buy. These costs can significantly impact your overall budget and limit or expand your neighborhood options.

Don’t let a down payment get you down

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need a 20% down payment to purchase a home. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors’ 2025 Profile of Home Buyers, the median down payment among first-time buyers was 10%. Also, keep in mind that some home loans may require only a smaller down payment of 3-5%.

Conclusion

This National Homeownership Month, commit to learning about the path to homeownership and make a plan to buy your dream home. To learn more about homeownership, mortgage rates, budgeting and more, visit Chase.com/Afford.

LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

*FHA loans require an up-front mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP), which may be financed, or paid at closing, and an FHA annual mortgage insurance premium (MIP) paid monthly will also apply.

** Veterans, Servicemembers, and members of the National Guard or Reserve may be eligible for a loan guaranteed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). A Certificate of Eligibility (COE) from the VA is required to document eligibility. Restrictions and limitations apply.

You may be required to pay a funding fee unless the VA determines you are exempt. Exempt status is determined by the VA and confirmed through a COE. This one-time fee may be financed into your loan in most cases and is paid directly to the VA.

*** Estimated payments do not include amounts for taxes, homeowners insurance, or mortgage insurance (if applicable). Actual payments will be higher.

For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described in this article or provided via links may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any business. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy. The material is not intended to provide legal, tax, or financial advice or to indicate the availability or suitability of any JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. product or service. You should carefully consider your needs and objectives before making any decisions and consult the appropriate professional(s). Outlooks and past performance are not guarantees of future results. JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates are not responsible for, and do not provide or endorse third party products, services, or other content. See full disclosures at Chase.com/afford.

Home lending products provided by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. Member FDIC.

2026-08-31T13:11:00

(BPT) – An alternative approach to residential construction shows how a home can be comfortable to live in, easier to maintain and better prepared for whatever comes next.

Most homeowners don’t spend much time thinking about what holds up their walls. They notice whether a house feels comfortable. They notice the noise from the street, the repairs that keep cropping up and, increasingly, how well their home can protect the people and things that matter when severe weather strikes.

A new St. Jude Dream Home^® in Lynchburg, Virginia, offers a different way to think about all of it.

For the first time in the 35-year history of the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway, one of its homes has been built with concrete block. At approximately 2,900 square feet, the house looks every bit at home in a modern residential neighborhood. What’s different is behind the design: solid block walls intended to deliver benefits the eventual homeowner can appreciate on ordinary days and when conditions are anything but.

And soon, one lucky winner will get the keys.

A dream home with a bigger purpose

Since its start in 1991, the St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway has brought builders, suppliers and communities together to build homes that help support the lifesaving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

The Lynchburg home adds a new chapter to that legacy.

“St. Jude families embody extraordinary strength and resilience, and we wanted this home to reflect those same qualities,” said Brent Gleason, president of Dominion Block, Brick & Hardscapes. “We’re proud to support an incredible mission while helping create a home that proves resilience doesn’t have to come at the expense of comfort or curb appeal.”

Built to look and feel like home

Concrete block may be doing the heavy lifting, but it isn’t all hidden behind the walls.

Smooth, exposed block creates a contemporary two-story feature wall in the cathedral great room. Deep window openings create built-in ledges for plants, artwork and personal touches. The masonry chimney serves as a natural focal point, adding sophistication and a sense of permanence to the space.

The solid walls also give the house a substantial feel, challenging the notion that building for resilience has to mean sacrificing warmth or character.

The kind of resilience you notice every day

For homeowners, resilience isn’t just about what happens during a major storm. Much of the payoff can be far less dramatic.

Concrete block walls provide thermal mass that helps moderate indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling loads, while their density limits sound transmission. They are also resistant to termites and rot and, when properly detailed to manage water, can provide a durable, lower-maintenance wall system.[1]

“As homeowners, we tend to put off maintenance. Before you know it, a small issue can become an expensive repair,” said Andy Flint of L.G. Flint General Contractors. “But the mass of these block walls and the overall durability of construction is really going to make a difference.”

Those are benefits a homeowner can appreciate without giving much thought to their home’s assembly.

But there are also days when the walls’ makeup matters a lot.

Concrete block doesn’t burn and can help slow the spread of fire. Reinforced block walls can also be designed to stand up to high winds and severe weather.[2]

2026-08-28T16:03:00

(BPT) – Power outages are no longer the kind of rare inconvenience homeowners can afford to shrug off. From heat waves to overloaded grids, it’s no longer a matter of if the power will go out. Instead, homeowners should consider what will be at risk when it does: the refrigerator, Wi-Fi, work devices, lights and the ability to stay comfortable when temperatures swing, especially during the summer.

This is where home battery backup changes the conversation.

“Compared with the cost and disruption of a multiday outage, a backup system can be a relatively small investment,” said Beau, Jackery’s in-house former licensed electrician and product expert. “Ask anyone who has had to throw away a refrigerator or freezer full of food because of an outage. Backup power can pay for itself the first time it keeps a home running when the grid does not.”

Throughout his career, Beau has fielded dozens of questions about the necessity, cost and complexity of home backup power. Below are his answers to some of the most frequent questions he’s fielded as an electrician.

What would you say to someone who thinks home battery backup is too complicated or too expensive to consider?

With advancements in battery and solar technology, indoor-safe home backup is accessible to virtually all homeowners and renters. Home backup used to be limited to those with the space to run a gas generator, but power stations have made it possible to have compact, powerful and renewable energy sources in any home — from apartments to RVs to townhomes.

More importantly, you have options. For example, Jackery offers a wide range of power stations that are capable of running high-draw, crucial appliances in the event of an outage, the capacity of which you can tailor to your home’s needs and even add onto later in the case of modular units, making it easier than ever before to have reliable home backup.

Why is battery backup just as relevant for grid-connected suburban homes as it is for rural or off-grid properties?

Storms, heat waves, fire risk and more can cause an outage, leaving you without Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, the means to cook and the ability to do work. The modern home — and modern lives for that matter — are so electrified. Having a home backup, whether living in a suburban area or off grid, is crucial.

What are you seeing that makes backup power feel more urgent right now?

Climbing grid demands are really driving urgency for backup power. Heat waves, for example, are pushing utilities to their limits, and rolling outages are becoming a normal part of summer instead of a rare event.

Many people assume backup power is only useful during storm season. Why do you see it as an all-year necessity?

The truth is that outages can happen year-round. Being caught in a blackout without home backup can mean an entire fridge and freezer full of spoiled food, a workday lost and exposure to heat or freezing temperatures. Home backup is an investment in consistency. By that, I mean the ability to run what you need no matter what the grid is doing. As a bonus, you’ll have a solar-capable energy source that’s perfect for outdoor projects requiring power but that are removed from traditional AC outlets.

Some homeowners are pitched solar panels without any discussion of storage. Why should battery backup be part of that conversation from the start?

I always recommend installing a home solar system with battery storage. Rooftop solar panels are great to have, but without energy storage, you won’t have access to that energy during a storm or at night.

To get the most out of a rooftop solar system, investing in a home backup battery — even a smaller-capacity unit — means owning that free energy and the freedom to use it whenever. And it’s not just during outages that battery storage is helpful. In areas with peak electricity pricing, energy stored in batteries can be used to offset energy costs and save on your electricity bill.

How does a transfer switch make backup power more practical for everyday homeowners?

A transfer switch is ideal for homeowners who want uninterrupted power backup in multiple rooms and to save money on utilities.

For example, let’s say you pair Jackery’s Solar Generator 5000 Plus and the Smart Transfer Switch (STS). In the event of a blackout, the STS ensures seamless 20-millisecond power switching to keep essential devices running. And with the Jackery app, you’ll know exactly what you are using on each circuit and have the ability to control these circuits. Imagine not knowing there was an outage because your home backup automatically took over. Plus, the unit has an 11-plus-year battery lifespan and a five-year warranty, so you can count on it for home backup for over a decade.

Jackery also has a Transfer Switch-capable HomePower 3600 Plus that offers sub-10-millisecond uninterrupted power switching, delivering 3600W output and 3,584Wh capacity. It’s also expandable up to 21kWh, which allows you to keep large home appliances like a refrigerator powered up to 14 days. And the unit is built to last on a 6,000-cycle battery rated for 16-plus years.

Beyond a power outage, a transfer switch also offers options for load management and grid arbitrage, helping lower utility bills in areas where power is more expensive and helping keep the appliances that are most important powered for the longest time.

For homes that do not want any electrical installation, what should people know about portable battery backup options that can power appliances right out of the box?

Home backup doesn’t require installation. The Solar Generator 5000 Plus and HomePower 3600 Plus are solo-functioning portable power stations. Jackery also offers plenty of portable, compact options that are ready to power your high-draw appliances right out of the box.

These home backups can also recharge in multiple ways, including via portable Jackery solar panels and traditional AC power. Whether you need to ensure your home office, Wi-Fi and computer are connected so your workday isn’t interrupted, or you need to ensure your groceries are safe in the refrigerator, there’s a solar-capable power station that’s right for you.

This summer and beyond, be prepared for heat waves, high-demand grid events, storms and ordinary moments when you don’t expect the lights to go out. Backup power provides peace of mind and, more importantly, protects groceries, keeps work online, maintains comfort and preserves access to the essentials.

To learn more about backup power options and how buying one now is a practical investment in keeping daily life moving, visit Jackery.com.

2026-08-25T06:01:01

(BPT) – For years, cool grays defined the clean, modern home aesthetic. Walls, floors, cabinets, siding and stone accents all came in shades of “millennial gray.” But trends are shifting. Now, homeowners are abandoning the grays that ruled interior and exterior design since the mid-2010s for softer, warmer, more inviting neutrals.

A growing desire for a warmer, cozier palette

According to Westlake Royal Building Products’ 2026 Trendline report, gray interiors have declined as homeowners’ interest in warm neutrals has increased. In fact, the report found that searches for “neutral color palettes” have increased 10 times since 2021, while Pinterest searches for “warm neutrals” are up more than 85% year over year.

So, what does this look like in practice? Instead of cool grays and stark whites, homeowners are embracing shades of off-white, soft cream and warm greige. These versatile hues create spaces that feel inviting and grounded while maintaining a polished, contemporary look.

Fortunately, embracing this warmer palette doesn’t require a complete home makeover. One of the easiest ways to introduce warmth, texture and timeless appeal is with manufactured stone, whether it’s featured on an interior accent wall, fireplace surround or exterior façade.

How to achieve the new neutral look

Choosing the right manufactured stone is about more than just color. The profile, texture and tone all work together to create spaces that feel warm, inviting and timeless.

Dutch Quality Stone, a leading manufacturer of manufactured stone veneer under the Westlake Royal Building Products family of brands, offers two new colorways — Soft Barley and Summer Plains — that embrace the shift toward warmer neutrals. Offered across several stone profiles, the colorways make it easy to incorporate warmth, texture and timeless appeal throughout the home.

For homeowners drawn to creamy neutrals with subtle warmth, Soft Barley delivers a soft, sun-washed look that pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood and metal, as well as deeper accent tones.

Choose Soft Barley in Rough Ashlar for a striking, classic profile of dressed stones. Rough Ashlar offers stones of varying sizes and textures that can add authenticity and depth to indoor and outdoor areas. Consider using this stone to surround your living room fireplace and create a floor-to-ceiling hearth. This indoor feature will instantly make a room feel welcoming and warm, even when the fireplace is off.

Alternatively, you can choose Soft Barley in the Weather Ledge profile to create a textural, aged fireplace surround that creates moderate shadow relief for added visual depth and intimate ambience. This stone profile in the warm neutral colorway is also well suited for building full or partial exterior wall facades, entryway columns and door frames, instantly adding curb appeal to your home.

Homeowners seeking a dynamic, earthy yet refined colorway should opt for Summer Plains. Rooted in the natural rhythm of open landscapes, Summer Plains can make a space feel grounded and expressive at the same time. Because this colorway blends sandy browns, cool grays and deeper blue-gray tones, it offers homeowners a natural transition from millennial grays to warm neutrals while enhancing texture and visual movement.

For example, Summer Plains in Dutch Quality Stone’s Tuscan Ridge profile captures the look of traditional Italian stone masonry while complementing modern designs indoors and out. In the kitchen, its combination of large rubble shapes and ledge stone adds texture and dimension to accent walls or backsplashes, creating a brighter, more open feel. Outdoors, Tuscan Ridge in this warm neutral brings character to entryways and enhances outdoor living spaces with rugged-looking architectural features.

Like Soft Barley, Summer Plains also comes in the Weather Ledge profile, leaning into a linear, layered look ideal for homeowners who want texture with a streamlined feel.

Bringing this trend home

Not sure where to begin? Westlake Royal’s Design Canvas makes it easy to explore the possibilities. The digital design tool lets you upload your own images and experiment with different combinations. You can visualize exterior updates and see how warm neutral palettes could look in your living room, kitchen, porch, patio or other areas of your home.

To learn more about Dutch Quality Stone and explore its warm neutral colorways, visit DutchQualityStone.com.

2026-08-24T08:07:00

(BPT) – Key takeaways:

• Home cooks want appliances that save time, reduce cleanup and make everyday meal prep simple.
• Samsung’s new Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology and Bespoke Smart Slide-In Range with Flex Duo™ Oven and Dual True Convection feature smart innovations that simplify the daily cooking routine.

Today’s home cooks are looking for kitchen appliances that do much more than cook food. They’re seeking smart appliances with intuitive features that save time, reduce cleanup and make everyday meal prep inherently more efficient.

It’s part of a broader shift in how Americans are using their kitchens. According to the National Kitchen & Bath Association’s 2026 Kitchen Trends Report, 100% of surveyed industry professionals agree that lifestyle-enhancing features will be popular over the next three years, as kitchens become more personalized, multipurpose hubs.

Smart tech-enhanced appliances like Samsung’s Bespoke kitchen appliances now pull double duty, simplifying everyday cooking with smart innovations that make your daily routine easier. Here are four important features to look for in smart kitchen appliances:

1. Capture smoke, steam and odors with DualVent Technology

Are you frustrated with the smoke and heavy steam that permeate your kitchen while cooking and linger long after dinner? You’re not alone. The surge in urban living, evolving work-from-home habits and growing health awareness have led to an uptick in demand for kitchen appliances that keep indoor air cleaner. This has more and more people actively seeking ventilation and cooking technologies that eliminate grease, smoke and cooking odors to maintain healthier, fresher living spaces.

Traditional over-the-range microwaves can vent some of the smoke and vapor from your kitchen, but you may still find that they stick around, along with stubborn cooking smells. To tackle smoke, steam and odors during and after cooking, look for a microwave that works twice as hard with dual vents. Samsung’s new Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology combines a powerful front-burner vent — where most cooking happens — with standard bottom vents for a fresher, more comfortable kitchen.

The dual-vent system pulls smoke and steam away from the front and back burners simultaneously, which is especially useful during high-heat cooking and large-meal prep when you have multiple pots and pans heating at once. Compared to conventional over-the-range microwave models without DualVent, Samsung’s Bespoke model captures up to three times more cooking smoke.

Best of all? There’s no need for manual adjustment. The powered vent cover automatically opens when ventilation is activated and closes when turned off for added convenience.

2. Cook smart and faster with sensor technology

Getting the timing just right in the microwave can be tricky. Every dish heats differently, which means preset cooking times don’t always deliver the best results. Thankfully, Samsung’s Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology eliminates the guesswork.

Instead of stopping, adjusting and restarting the microwave, the model’s Sensor Cook detects the moisture released by your food and adjusts the cooking time and power level accordingly. And thanks to the microwave’s 2.1-cubic-foot capacity, you can cook large dishes and family-sized meals with ease.

3. Cook multiple dishes in an oven that’s designed to flex

If you live in a busy household or are a frequent entertainer, you know that multitasking in the kitchen is essential for a successful meal. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or an elaborate holiday feast, you can save time and effortlessly cook two dishes at once — even if the recipe calls for different temperatures — with Samsung’s new Bespoke Smart Slide-In Range with Flex Duo™ Oven and Dual True Convection.

The spacious oven comes with a removable divider, allowing you to seamlessly split it into two independent cooking zones with separate temperature controls. Available in both gas and electric models, this flexible dual-by-design oven maximizes oven space and streamlines meal timing, so you never have to compromise between roasting savory vegetables or baking a sweet dessert.

Pro tip: Want to speed up meal prep? The Flex Duo Oven features a no-Preheat Air Fry Max mode. It’s the ultimate shortcut for serving wholesome, crispy family meals on a tight weeknight schedule.

4. Enjoy connected convenience with smart tech integration

Smart connectivity has become one of the most sought-after features in today’s kitchen appliances, as more consumers expect their devices to work together as part of a connected home rather than as standalone products. Demand is being fueled by features like smartphone integration, voice control, remote monitoring, personalized automation and energy management that make everyday cooking more convenient. That’s why Samsung’s Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology and Flex Duo Oven are part of the brand’s intelligent SmartThings ecosystem.

Using the Auto Connectivity feature, the microwave can pair directly with the oven range, automatically activating the hood fan and lighting the moment the cooktop turns on. You can also use the SmartThings app to control the microwave remotely, explore personalized recipes and monitor energy usage right from your smartphone for a streamlined, stress-free experience.

Your kitchen appliances should work just as hard as you do. When they pull double duty, they make everyday cooking easier, no matter your skills or schedule.

Samsung’s Bespoke Over-the-Range Microwave with DualVent Technology and Bespoke Smart Slide-In Range with Flex Duo™ Oven and Dual True Convection are available to purchase now. To learn more about the Bespoke line, visit Samsung.com.

All photos courtesy of Samsung

2026-08-17T09:01:00

(BPT) – You’ve saved up a down payment, and you’re ready to buy a home. But before you talk to a real estate agent or start visiting open houses, you’re probably asking yourself, “Is it a good time to buy a house right now?”

The best time to buy a house is different for everyone. Instead of waiting for rates to drop or prices to cool, the better question is, “Am I ready to buy a house?” When your finances are solid and the numbers work for your life, a good time to buy isn’t something you wait for. It’s something you build toward.

Here are some simple steps from Navy Federal Credit Union to help you get started on your homebuying journey.

1. Check your credit.

Pull your free credit report at AnnualCreditReport.com and look for errors, outstanding balances or accounts in collections. Dispute any inaccuracies and pay down high balances where you can. If your credit needs improvement, it often takes some time for changes to be reflected, typically 3 to 6 months, before applying. Small improvements can help strengthen your application and support more favorable loan terms.

2. Build your budget.

Start with what you’ve saved, then subtract your estimated closing costs and moving expenses. From there, determine a down payment that still leaves room for financial flexibility and other homeownership expenses. From there, use a mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly mortgage payment based on factors like your down payment, credit profile and loan details — not just the maximum amount you may qualify for. Make sure to factor in property taxes, homeowners’ insurance and enough to cover utilities.

3. Compare lenders and get preapproved

A preapproval letter shows sellers you’re serious and tells you exactly how much you can borrow. To get preapproved, you’ll typically need recent pay stubs, 2 years of tax returns, bank statements and a valid ID. Shop with at least 2 or 3 mortgage lenders to compare rates and fees before you commit.

4. Research local market trends

Look at active listings, recent home sales and average days on market in the neighborhoods you’re targeting. Notice whether homes are selling above or below the asking price — that tells you a lot about competition. A local real estate agent can help you read the signals and move quickly when the right home comes along.

5. Find the right loan for your financial situation

Conventional mortgages, FHA loans, VA loans and adjustable-rate mortgages each offer different features. Exploring how they work can help you choose an option that aligns with your financial situation and plans. If you’re an Active Duty Servicemember or Veteran, a VA loan may allow you to buy with no down payment¹ and no private mortgage insurance. It’s worth exploring all your options before you decide.

6. Make a home purchase with confidence

When your finances are solid, your preapproval is in hand and you find a home that fits your budget and your life, that may be a good time to buy. Don’t wait for perfect conditions — wait for what works for you.

This content is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal, tax or financial advice. It is always a good idea to consult a tax or financial advisor for specific information on how certain laws apply to your situation and about your individual financial situation. Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA. Equal Housing Lender.

¹100% financing subject to all VA rules, guidelines, and additional program requirements. All loans subject to approval. VA loans may include a funding fee, which may be financed up to the maximum allowed loan amount. Navy Federal has no affiliation with U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or any other government agency.

2026-08-04T07:01:00

(BPT) – For decades, building a backyard deck meant choosing wood and accepting the ongoing upkeep that came with it. Today, homeowners want more from their outdoor living spaces: the timeless beauty of wood paired with easy maintenance and lasting durability. Engineered to overcome many of wood’s drawbacks, composite decking delivers that combination, making it an increasingly popular choice for outdoor spaces designed to look great and perform for years to come.

Here are five reasons more homeowners are making the switch from wood to composite decking:

1. Less maintenance, more enjoyment. People want outdoor spaces they can enjoy without adding more chores to their weekend to-do list. Traditional wood decking requires ongoing maintenance, including regular staining and sealing, to help preserve its appearance. Composite decking eliminates those recurring tasks. With no need to sand, stain or seal the boards, homeowners can spend less time maintaining their decks and more time enjoying them.
2. Built to handle the elements. Decks face year-round exposure to sun, rain, snow and changing temperatures. Those conditions can take a toll on traditional wood, leading to problems like rot, warping and splintering. Composite decking is engineered for lasting performance, helping decks withstand harsh weather and everyday wear with less risk of deterioration over time.
3. Engineered for beauty and performance. Today’s composite decking looks more like natural wood than ever while delivering performance wood can’t match. Realistic woodgrain patterns, rich colors and natural-looking variations capture the warmth and character of wood with the durability and low-maintenance benefits of a modern material. Recent innovations have also addressed common outdoor concerns, including heat-mitigating technology that helps keep boards cooler during peak sun and heat. Together, these advances give homeowners more freedom to create an outdoor space without sacrificing style or performance.
4. A smarter choice for the environment. More homeowners are considering the environmental impact of the materials they choose. Composite decking reduces demand for virgin timber by using recycled and reclaimed materials. Trex decking, for example, is made from 95% recycled and reclaimed materials, including reclaimed wood and recycled plastic film, helping give new life to materials that might otherwise end up in landfills.
5. An investment that pays off over time. While wood may have a lower upfront cost, ongoing maintenance, repairs and eventual board replacement can add up over time. Composite decking’s durability and low-maintenance performance make it a smart investment for homeowners planning for the years ahead. Long-term warranties of up to 50 years or more offer another layer of confidence in that investment, giving homeowners added peace of mind that their outdoor space will stand the test of time.

Ready to explore your options? Visit Trex.com to learn more about composite decking or take the Trex Deck Match Quiz to discover the best options for your home.

2026-07-14T12:01:00

(BPT) – When homeowners begin planning a new deck, the first question is often, “How much will it cost?” It’s an understandable starting point. After all, a deck is a significant investment. But the purchase price only tells part of the story.

Material choice — often between traditional wood and composite decking — has a major impact not just on initial cost, but on long-term value and satisfaction. Upkeep requirements, repair needs, durability and time spent maintaining the space all factor into the real cost of ownership, and ultimately, how much value a homeowner gets from their outdoor space.

Looking Beyond the Price Tag

One of the biggest misconceptions about composite decking is that it costs significantly more than wood. While that may have been true years ago, advances in manufacturing and growing consumer demand have narrowed the gap considerably. In fact, for an average 12-by-16-foot deck, the cost of materials difference between pressure-treated lumber and an entry-level composite product such as Trex Enhance^® Basics can be as little as $150. Viewed through a long-term lens, that modest upfront premium can be quickly offset.

Beyond the initial purchase price, wood decking requires ongoing maintenance to preserve its appearance and structural integrity. Regular cleaning, sanding, staining and sealing are needed to protect against moisture, UV exposure and everyday wear. Homeowners can spend hundreds of dollars on these tasks, with each maintenance cycle averaging around $400 for materials for the do-it-yourself homeowner. Hiring a professional makes it even more expensive to maintain a wood deck.

These ongoing demands can also affect homeowner satisfaction. In fact, a recent survey* found that 78% of wood deck owners report some level of regret with their decking material, often tied to maintenance requirements and ongoing upkeep. When those recurring expenses are factored in, the initial price difference between wood and composite decking can often be recovered within just one or two maintenance cycles, with savings continuing to build across years of ownership. However, one of the biggest benefits of most composite products is that they feature fade and stain warranties. While wood visibly deteriorates, even while maintained, composite decking holds on to day one aesthetics for years.

The Value of Time

The costs associated with a deck aren’t measured only in dollars. For many homeowners, weekends are a valuable commodity. Time spent power washing, sanding and refinishing a deck is time not spent with friends and family, relaxing outdoors or pursuing other projects and pastimes.

As outdoor living spaces increasingly function as extensions of the home, convenience has become an important part of the value equation. Materials that require less upkeep allow homeowners to spend more time enjoying their outdoor spaces and less time maintaining them.

Durability Matters

Durability also plays a major role in long-term value. A deck is exposed to some of the harshest conditions around the home, with sun, rain, snow, humidity and fluctuating temperatures all taking a toll over time. Wood decks can develop cracks, splinters, warped boards and other signs of deterioration as they age. Beyond affecting appearance, these issues can create safety concerns and lead to repair costs that many homeowners don’t anticipate when budgeting for a deck.

Composite decking products, by contrast, are engineered to resist common issues such as rotting, warping and splintering, helping maintain a more consistent appearance and reducing the likelihood of major repairs or replacement. While wood decks typically begin to show significant signs of deterioration within about a decade, high-performance composite decking can be backed by limited warranties of up to 50 years, underscoring its long-term durability and value.

Thinking Like an Investor

When making major home purchases, whether it’s a new vehicle, a roof replacement or new appliances, homeowners naturally look beyond price to consider long-term value, including maintenance, lifespan and overall cost over the life of the product. Decking deserves the same consideration, especially given that it is one of the most significant outdoor investments many homeowners will make.

As that mindset becomes more common, it is driving increased interest in composite decking, which is designed to minimize upkeep and deliver lasting performance for years to come. The bottom line is, the smartest deck investment isn’t simply the one with the lowest purchase price. It’s the one that continues to deliver durability, aesthetics and enjoyment well into the future.

For more information about composite decking, visit trex.com.

*Source: 2026 Wood Regret Survey, Atomik Research